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Most motorcycles are a large investment. That is why it’s imperative to keep them in the best shape possible. This means that taking the proper steps to store your bike during the winter is important. The proper storage steps will ensure that your motorcycle is rust free and ready to ride when springtime arrives.

Storage Location

Choose a dry, indoor location to store your bike for wintertime. This can be in a place such as a garage, a rental storage place or a motorcycle dealership. If the bike must be kept outside, search for a covered area that is hidden from passersby. Additionally, protect your bike with proper security measures such as a fork or wheel locks.

Change the Oil

Changing your bike’s oil will significantly reduce the effects of condensation and rust. It’s necessary to do this each time the bike is stored for the winter.

Protect the Engine

Before storing your motorcycle, you will need to shield the engine’s cylinders from moisture. Remove the spark plugs, and dispense clean engine oil into every cylinder. To guard against fuel residue, ground the ignition leads. Replace all of the spark plugs before storing the bike for the winter.

Battery Maintenance

There are several options to maintain a motorcycle battery during wintertime. Consider buying a battery tender, which can be plugged into an electrical outlet. This charges the battery as needed. Additionally, you can get a trickle charger. This plugs into a light source. Every time you turn on the switch, which can be something like a garage door opener, the charger will be activated. Another option is to remove the battery altogether. It would be wise to check to see if the battery needs to be replaced before investing in any storage accessories.

Drain the Fuel System

Draining the fuel system is essential when storing your bike for the winter. Moisture can build up inside of a partially full tank and damage the entire fuel system. Completely drain the tank and refill it with fresh fuel. Make sure the tank is completely full. Additionally, consider adding a fuel stabilizer to the tank before storing your bike for the winter.

Protecting the Exhaust

Use a lubricant to protect your exhaust from rust. For further protection, consider covering the exhaust with polyurethane bags. You can also stuff the bags inside of the exhaust pipe before completely covering the outside.

Tire Storage

Store the bike with inflated tires. It's best to store it off of the ground by engaging its center stand. If this is not possible, move the bike twice a month so that it can rest on a different area of the tires each time it is moved.

Body

Before storing your bike, wash and dry it thoroughly. Apply wax, a corrosion protection product and chrome polish to avoid rust accumulation.

Cover the Bike

Invest in a motorcycle cover. This keeps moisture from collecting on the bike. The cover will prevent your bike from rusting. Before covering the bike, make sure it is completely dry. Following these steps before storing your bike for the winter will ensure that you and your bike will be ready to hug the roads after the first signs of spring.